TLC Takes ’19 Kids and Counting’ Off TV Schedule

TLC has officially taken 19 Kids and Counting off the network's schedule after news surfaced that Josh Duggar, the family's eldest son, was accused of molesting a number of underage girls when he was a teenager.

"Effective immediately, TLC has pulled all episodes of 19 Kids and Counting currently from the air. We are deeply saddened and troubled by this heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and victims at this difficult time," TLC said in a statement (via People).

In 2006, Josh was taken into the Children's Safety Center in Springdale, Ark., to be questioned for allegations reporting that he molested five underage girls when he was a teen. According to E! News, his parents, Michelle and Jim Bob, reported the situation to a state trooper a year after they found out about the situation and put him into counseling. However, The New York Daily News reported that this state trooper has been convicted for child pornography and in currently serving a 56-year prison sentence.

Josh Duggar has since released a statement to People on May 21 regarding his past actions. "Twelve years ago, as a young teenager, I acted inexcusably for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret, he said. "I hurt others, including my family and close friends," he said. "I confessed this to my parents who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities where I confessed my wrongdoing, and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life."

Anna Duggar, Josh's wife, as well as her parents, have reportedly known about the assaults before they married. The couple have three children together.

Since the allegations have surfaced, Josh has resigned from his position at the Family Research Council, a Christian lobbying organization based in Washington, D.C.